Kaitlyn Clark has not appeared in a sanctioned basketball game in nearly eight months ahead of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
After a lengthy recovery process, Clark is ready to return to the court and make his national team debut for Team USA. Many had low expectations for the former Iowa State superstar, not knowing what to expect after a lengthy layoff. Clark shattered those expectations and then some.
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In five qualifying games against the United States, Clark helped her team to an undefeated record while playing some incredible basketball in the process. Her performance in these games earned her another honor in the series. Clark was named the tournament’s MVP.
Clark averaged 11.6 points, 6.4 assists and 1.6 rebounds in these five games, while also sending 4 steals and 2 blocks. She shot 53% from the field and 37% from beyond the arc, effectively leading the U.S. offense. She did all of this primarily off the bench, which makes it all the more impressive.
Even though Team USA had already locked up a spot in the 2026 FIBA World Cup before the tournament, this was still the perfect opportunity for Clark to get back on the court and shake off the rust. While the future of the WNBA in 2026 remains uncertain, there is no doubt that Clark will be ready to play whenever the Indiana Fever takes the field again.
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It was a difficult second season in the WNBA for Clark, who battled multiple ailments during an injury-plagued season. If her performance in this tournament is any indication, she’s back to full health and the rest of the WNBA is going to be in big trouble when it comes to playing in the Fever.
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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Caitlin Clark named FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying MVP